As we see a rise in solar for home adoption across the UK, more homeowners are asking an important question: what happens when a solar panel reaches the end of its lifespan? Whether you installed your system 10 years ago or are planning ahead, understanding solar panel recycling and disposal is essential to making sustainable decisions.
Below, we answer the most common questions around recycling, efficiency loss, disposal costs, and what to expect after 25 years.
What do you do with solar panels after 25 years?
Panels still work, just not as well
Most solar panels don’t stop working after 25 years — they just lose some efficiency, often dropping to around 70–80% output. While they might not be suitable for powering your entire home, they can still be used for smaller setups, like powering outdoor lights or solar water features.
Assess if a full upgrade is worthwhile
Depending on your energy goals, it may make sense to upgrade your home solar array. New panels take up less space, deliver higher power, and can pair with modern storage. If your existing system is no longer keeping up, replacing it can bring performance back to optimal levels.
Recycling helps reduce waste and reclaim materials
When panels are no longer viable for energy production, they can be broken down into recyclable materials like glass, metal, and silicon. Some UK recyclers handle this through WEEE-compliant schemes, ensuring old panels are kept out of landfills.
Use your installer for takeback or replacement
When it’s time to retire panels, your original installer — like New World Energy — may offer a removal or trade-in service. This makes it easy to transition to a new system solar setup without the burden of finding a third-party recycling solution.
What percentage of solar panels are recycled?
Most panels are 90–95% recyclable
A typical solar panel is made of over 90% recyclable materials. Glass and aluminium frames are easy to recover, and new processes are being developed to reclaim silicon and metals from the cells themselves — reducing the environmental footprint of solar at end-of-life.
UK infrastructure is improving
Although Europe leads in panel recycling, the UK is starting to catch up. Here’s what to know:
- More local facilities are opening to process solar waste properly
- Recycling infrastructure in the UK is expanding year by year
- Demand from homeowners and installers is pushing faster progress
- Government regulation (WEEE compliance) is driving improved handling
Manufacturers are designing for recyclability
More panel makers are creating products with easy disassembly and fewer toxins. This allows for safer and cheaper recycling, which will benefit homeowners in the future. Choosing a quality system now ensures you can recycle it more easily later.
Solar is still a highly sustainable option
Despite the challenge of dealing with old panels, solar remains far cleaner than fossil fuels. When you factor in 25+ years of clean generation followed by high recyclability, the case for solar for home remains strong from both a cost and environmental view.
| Key Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Recyclability of Panels | Over 90% of a typical solar panel is recyclable. Glass and aluminium are easy to recover, and processes to reclaim silicon and metals are improving. |
| UK Recycling Infrastructure | The UK is expanding its recycling capabilities for solar waste. As demand rises, recycling will become more accessible and aligned with WEEE regulations. |
| Design for Recyclability | Manufacturers are improving panel designs for easier disassembly and fewer toxic materials, making future recycling safer and more cost-effective. |
| Sustainability Overall | Solar energy remains significantly cleaner than fossil fuels, offering decades of clean power and strong recyclability, making it an environmentally sound choice. |
How do I dispose of old solar panels near me?
Use an authorised WEEE recycling centre
You can’t throw old solar panels in the bin — they must be treated as electronic waste. Here’s what to do instead:
- Always check they’re licensed to handle solar electrical waste
- Use registered WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) facilities
- Search for local recycling centres that accept solar panels
- Many centres offer specific drop-off points or scheduled collections
Check if your council offers collection
Some UK councils now offer help with solar panel disposal through local schemes or waste partnerships. It’s worth checking with your borough to find out what services are available and how to arrange collection or delivery.
Installers often manage recycling
If you’re upgrading your system, companies like New World Energy can handle panel removal, disposal, and even recycling logistics. This is often part of a package when installing a new system solar or storage system — making it a seamless transition.
Avoid illegal dumping or fly-tipping
Dumping solar panels illegally is both harmful to the environment and a criminal offence. Even damaged panels may contain materials that must be processed carefully. Always use certified waste handlers or approved recycling routes for proper disposal.
Need Help Replacing Old Solar Panels?
While New World Energy doesn’t recycle solar panels directly, we can support you in upgrading your system and advise on how to responsibly dispose of old or inefficient equipment through the correct channels.
If your panels are over 20 years old or no longer performing well, we can help assess your system, recommend a modern replacement, and coordinate safe removal. Our installations are designed for efficiency, future compatibility, and long-term performance.
Contact Us
New World Energy
Expert solar and battery storage installations across the UK.
Email: info@new-worldenergy.co.uk
Phone: 01865 600016
Website: www.new-worldenergy.co.uk
Looking to replace or upgrade your system? Get in touch today and we’ll help you take the next step.
